President Obama and Vladimir Putin in September 2013. / Alexander Nemenov, AFP/Getty Images

by David Jackson, USA TODAY

by David Jackson, USA TODAY

Vladimir Putin says there won't be any friendly bets with President Obama over whether Russia or the United States wins more medals at next month's Winter Olympics.

"No, of course not," the Russian president told ABC's This Week. "We never make such bets."

Putin, who is hosting the Winter Olympics at Sochi, Russia, also praised Obama's athletic acumen.

"Barack is a huge sports fan," Putin said. "And I can see it. He's in terrific shape and gives it enough of his attention, not just to playing sports, but also to promoting sports."

Putin added:

"We wish success to our U.S. friends, U.S. athletes. As far as medals, those two are an important element of any sports even including Olympics. What is even more important to me is to see that our national team is capable, effective and holds promise."